In the heart of Sichuan cuisine lies a fiery, fragrant secret that elevates every dish to an extraordinary level of flavor. Today, I’m thrilled to share with you a cherished family recipe that has been the backbone of countless delicious meals in my household: the incomparable Sichuan Chili Oil (熟油辣椒). This isn’t just any chili oil – it’s a culinary weapon, a true essence of Sichuan gastronomy that you’ll find indispensable once you’ve tried it.
What is Sichuan Chili Oil (熟油辣椒)?
Chili oil is a condiment made from vegetable oil that has been infused with chili peppers.
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Now, Sichuan Chili Oil, also known as “熟油辣椒” in Chinese, is a traditional condiment from Sichuan cuisine made by infusing oil with a blend of chili flakes, Sichuan peppercorns, and other aromatic spices such as garlic, star anise, and cinnamon. This oil is renowned for its bold, spicy, and slightly numbing flavor, which adds depth and intensity to various dishes. It is commonly used in recipes like mapo tofu, Sichuan hotpot, and dan dan noodles, enhancing them with its distinctively piquant and tingling sensation.
This recipe has been a favorite among those who dare to dive deep into the authentic taste of Sichuan dishes. Many have attempted various Sichuan recipes only to find something was amiss – often, it’s the absence of this very chili oil that makes all the difference. Crafted with a blend of bold spices and aromatics, this chili oil is not just a condiment but a revelation, bringing a robust depth and heat that perfectly complements the region’s bold flavors.
Brought to you from a secret family recipe (and yes, I had to sneak around my dad to bring this to you – so let’s keep this between us!), this post will guide you through each detailed step to creating your very own batch of Sichuan Chili Oil. From selecting the right type of chili flakes to achieving the perfect oil temperature for that fragrant sizzle, every detail matters.
Chef’s Notes
- Tips for Success: Make sure the oil is sufficiently hot before pouring it over the spices to extract their full flavors.
- Serving Suggestions: Enhance the flavor of dumplings, noodles, or stir-fries by drizzling this chili oil over them.
- Additional Ingredients: For an added kick, consider incorporating a few drops of soy sauce or a pinch of salt to the finished oil.
- Dinner Parties: Impress your guests by serving dishes drizzled with this aromatic Sichuan Chili Oil.
- Healthy Eating: Elevate your healthy meals with a touch of this flavorful homemade chili oil.
Additional Notes
- This Sichuan Chili Oil recipe is a staple in Chinese cuisine, known for its vibrant heat and aromatic flavors.
- The dish includes a blend of chili flakes, ginger, garlic, and an array of spices infused in rapeseed oil, creating a versatile condiment.
- To enhance this recipe, you can experiment with different types of chili flakes or adjust the spice levels to suit your preference.
- Serve this chili oil with dumplings, noodles, stir-fries, or use it as a dipping sauce for an authentic Sichuan dining experience.
- Leftover chili oil can be stored in a sealed container and refrigerated for up to a month.
Sichuan Chili Oil
Dive into the heart of Sichuan cuisine with this authentic Sichuan Chili Oil recipe! Perfect for enhancing your favorite dishes, this chili oil brings the vibrant heat and aroma that’s essential in many Chinese dishes. Whether you’re drizzling it over Mapo Tofu or spicing up a simple stir-fry, this homemade chili oil is a game-changer for any spicy food aficionado.
4
servings10
minutes5
minutes120
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hours15
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Spices and Aromatics
1/2 cup chili flakes
2 tablespoons finely minced ginger
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 green onion, sectioned
3 star anise
2 black cardamom pods
1 cinnamon stick
- Oil and Seeds
1 cup rapeseed oil
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds
- Alternative Ingredients
Chili flakes: can use crushed red pepper for a milder heat.
Rapeseed oil: can substitute with peanut oil or vegetable oil.
Black cardamom: can be replaced with green cardamom for a different flavor profile.
Directions
- Combine chili flakes, minced ginger, minced garlic, green onion sections, star anise, black cardamom, and cinnamon stick in a heat-resistant stainless steel bowl.
- In a saucepan, heat the rapeseed oil until it reaches about 375°F (190°C), approximately 5 minutes.
- Carefully pour the hot oil over the spice mixture in the bowl. Stand back to avoid splatter as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Once the bubbling subsides slightly, stir in the toasted sesame seeds and allow the oil to cool completely.
- Once cooled, remove the green onion sections and transfer the chili oil to a sealed container for storage.
Equipment
- stainless steel cookware set
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 120kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 5mg
- Potassium: 30mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 0g
- Vitamin A: 150IU
- Vitamin C: 0.6mg
- Calcium: 10mg
- Iron: 0.3mg
FAQ – Sichuan Chili Oil
What makes Sichuan Chili Oil different from other chili oils?
Sichuan Chili Oil is distinct due to its combination of Sichuan peppercorns, which impart a unique numbing sensation, and a variety of other spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. These ingredients create a complex flavor profile that is intensely aromatic and pungent, setting it apart from simpler chili oils that might only use chili peppers and salt.
Can I use any type of oil to make Sichuan Chili Oil?
While you can technically use any neutral oil, traditional recipes typically call for vegetable oil or peanut oil due to their high smoke points and neutral flavors. However, for an authentic taste, many prefer using rapeseed oil (canola oil), which is commonly used in Sichuan cuisine.
How should I store Sichuan Chili Oil and how long does it last?
Store your Sichuan Chili Oil in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It can also be refrigerated to extend its shelf life. Properly stored, the oil can last for up to six months. Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination and extend its shelf life.
What are the best uses for Sichuan Chili Oil?
Sichuan Chili Oil can be used in a variety of dishes to add depth and heat. It’s essential in recipes like mapo tofu, Sichuan hotpot, and dan dan noodles. It can also be used as a condiment for dumplings, noodles, and even pizza or other non-traditional dishes that need a spicy kick.
Is Sichuan Chili Oil very spicy?
The spice level can vary based on the type of chili flakes used and the amount added. Traditional Sichuan Chili Oil has a significant heat level, complemented by the numbing effect of Sichuan peppercorns. However, you can adjust the spiciness to your preference by modifying the quantity and type of chili peppers used in the recipe.
Can I make Sichuan Chili Oil without Sichuan peppercorns?
While you can make chili oil without Sichuan peppercorns, it won’t have the characteristic numbing sensation that defines Sichuan Chili Oil. The peppercorns are essential for achieving the authentic flavor profile.
What are the key ingredients in Sichuan Chili Oil?
The key ingredients typically include a high-quality oil, red chili flakes, Sichuan peppercorns, garlic, ginger, and optional spices like star anise, cinnamon, and cloves. These components are carefully balanced to create a harmonious and potent condiment.
What is chili oil made of?
Chili oil is typically made from a base of oil heated and infused with chili peppers. Depending on the variation, it may also include other spices and aromatics such as garlic, ginger, and various seeds to enhance its flavor profile.
What to use chili oil for?
Chili oil is incredibly versatile and can be used as a condiment, marinade, or cooking ingredient. It adds a spicy kick to soups, sauces, meats, vegetables, and is particularly popular in noodle dishes and dumplings.
Is chili oil good or bad for you?
In moderation, chili oil can be a beneficial addition to a diet. Chili peppers contain capsaicin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost metabolism. However, due to its high oil content, it should be consumed in moderation, especially for those watching their caloric and fat intake.
What is chili oil supposed to taste like?
Chili oil should have a pronounced spicy heat which can range from mild to very hot, depending on the type of chili used. It should also carry the flavors of any additional spices and aromatics included, offering layers of flavor beyond just heat, such as smokiness, earthiness, or a slight numbing sensation in the case of Sichuan chili oil.
